AKP Phnom Penh, April 11, 2025 --

At the Universal Peace Federation (UPF) World Summit 2025 in Seoul on Friday, Cambodian National Assembly President Samdech Maha Rathsapheathika Thipadei Khuon Sudary addressed the assembly regarding the unprecedented geopolitical and geo-economic challenges facing the world today, describing the current era as a critical juncture in history. 

With the rise of zero-sum games, power politics, and geopolitical rivalries, compounded by non-traditional security threats such as climate change, health security, and cybersecurity, she cautioned that these factors pose significant risks to global peace and prosperity. 

The weakening of the multilateral system and erosion of the rules-based international order further exacerbate these challenges.

In light of this complex landscape, Samdech Khuon Sudary proposed five key policy initiatives aimed at restoring world order for enhanced peace and prosperity:

Cultivating Strategic Trust Through Dialogue: It is essential to renew and nurture strategic trust among nations through sustained dialogue and diplomacy. 

International forums such as the World Summit serve as valuable platforms for fostering open discussions and building trust.

Advocating for Multilateralism and a Rules-Based Order: A strong commitment to an open and inclusive multilateral system is crucial. Upholding a rules-based international order grounded in the United Nations Charter should be a fundamental goal for all nations.

Nurturing International Integration and Connectivity: Promoting international integration and connectivity must be prioritised, as interdependence can lead to greater peace and prosperity. Isolationism, on the other hand, undermines these objectives.

Embracing a Centrist Approach in International Relations: A centrist approach should be adopted, balancing various national interests to ensure equitable engagement and cooperation among countries.

Recognising the Role of Women in Peace Processes: Samdech Khuon Sudary emphasised the indispensable role of women in the pursuit of sustainable peace. Their full and equal participation in all levels of peace processes — including conflict prevention, mediation, peacekeeping, and post-conflict reconstruction — is essential for achieving lasting outcomes.

To conclude, the Cambodian National Assembly President called for a collective responsibility among nations to foster peace through dialogue, cooperation, and adherence to international principles. 

She reiterated that the path to global peace relies on sustained commitment, a shared vision, and active engagement. 

The World Summit offers a vital space for initiating these discussions and advancing these proposals.

By Chea Vannak